A Life of Gratitude

It seems like just yesterday we were praying over the decision to homeschool our children. It didn't make a lot of sense in many ways, but we were obedient and said we would simply take it year by year. Here we are, twelve years later, all the curriculum has been completed, the requirements have been fulfilled, and today the boy who made me a homeschool mom will walk the stage in his cap and gown.  I know this milestone is difficult and complex for every parent, but I think it may hit a little differently for a homeschool mom. These years have been a journey of learning, growth, and connection for us both. I taught him to read, guided him through lessons tailored to his interests, and took him on every field trip to make learning hands-on. We've spent every day together as I did my best to nurture his confidence, correct his mistakes, and ensure he had the social experiences he needed. It hasn't been easy, but it has been so rewarding. Homeschooling has shaped both of us in...

"Then Moses told them, “Do not keep any of it until morning.” But some of them didn’t listen and kept some of it until morning. But by then it was full of maggots and had a terrible smell. Moses was very angry with them." Exodus 16:19-20 (NLT) I'm always amazed when reading the story of the Israelites being rescued from slavery in Egypt. God showed up in the most incredible ways for His people! Exodus chapter 15 begins with a song of praise to God for the deliverance He provided, but by the end of the chapter, the Israelites were already complaining. Can you believe it?  I think we are all like those Israelites to some degree. We witness God do incredible things for us and those around us, but then as soon as a problem arises or we become uncomfortable, we begin to doubt and complain, revealing our lack of trust in God. After much complaining, God provided fresh water, quail, and manna, which was a flaky substance that blanketed the ground each morning (Exodus 15:22-Exodu...

The names Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego typically go hand-in-hand with the image of a fiery furnace. However, I recently noticed a significant story about these men that I had never paid attention to before.  In Daniel 2 King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that he desperately wanted someone to explain to him. He called the astrologers, sorcerers, magicians, and enchanters but none of them could help him. The king was so angry, he ordered that every wise man in Babylon be killed. Because of this order, soldiers were sent to kill Daniel and his friends because they were known to be wise. Daniel handled the situation with composure and calmness, requesting that the king give him the opportunity to explain the meaning of the dream. The king allowed it. Daniel 2:17-19 (NIV) says, " Then Daniel went home and told his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah what had happened.   He urged them to ask the God of heaven to show them His mercy by telling them the secret, so they would not be...